Music New Tab Browser Extension
Our research team came across the Music New Tab browser hijacker while exploring suspicious websites. This extension modifies browser settings to promote the fake search engine music-newtab.com through redirects and also engages in monitoring users' browsing activities.
Browser hijackers typically adjust settings like homepages, new tabs/windows, and default search engines. These modifications compel users to visit promoted sites whenever they open a new browser tab/window or perform a search query in the URL bar.
Music New Tab employs this strategy to endorse music-newtab.com. Similar to many fake search engines, music-newtab.com lacks the capability to generate search results and redirects users to a legitimate one. While it initially directs to the Bing search engine (bing.com), the final destination may vary based on factors like user geolocation.
It's important to note that browser-hijacking software may employ persistence-ensuring techniques, such as blocking access to removal-related settings, to hinder users from restoring their browsers.
Music New Tab is equipped with data-tracking capabilities, a common trait among browser hijackers. The gathered information encompasses browsing and search engine histories, Internet cookies, usernames/passwords, personally identifiable details, financial data, and more. This collected data can be monetized by selling it to third parties or exploited for profit in other ways.
What Are Fake Search Engines and How to Avoid Them
Fake search engines are deceptive websites that mimic legitimate search engines but lack the functionality to provide genuine search results. Instead of delivering accurate and relevant search outcomes, these fake search engines often redirect users to other search engines or display sponsored links and advertisements. The primary goal of these fraudulent platforms is to generate revenue through ad clicks, affiliate marketing, or other malicious activities.
Here are some tips to help you avoid fake search engines:
Stick to Well-Known Search Engines:
Use reputable and well-known search engines such as Google, Bing, or Yahoo. These platforms have established trust and are committed to providing accurate and secure search results.
Check the URL:
Examine the URL of the search engine. Legitimate search engines typically have clear and recognizable domain names. Be wary of misspellings, extra characters, or unfamiliar domains that may indicate a fake search engine.
Review Search Results:
Analyze the search results provided by the engine. Fake search engines often display irrelevant or low-quality links. If the results seem suspicious or inconsistent with what you'd expect from a legitimate search engine, exercise caution.
Verify HTTPS Connection:
Ensure that the website uses a secure connection (HTTPS). Legitimate search engines prioritize user security and use HTTPS to encrypt data transmission. If the site lacks this security feature, it may be a sign of a fake search engine.
Be Cautious with Browser Extensions:
Some fake search engines may be distributed through malicious browser extensions. Only install extensions from trusted sources, and regularly review and remove any unnecessary or suspicious extensions.
Avoid Clicking on Ads or Sponsored Links:
Fake search engines often rely on sponsored links and ads for revenue. Avoid clicking on these advertisements, as they may lead to potentially harmful websites or contribute to fraudulent activities.
